'This is a thorough and thoughtful guide that delivers on every count.' Artbookreview.net With a passion for animals that is evident throughout, animal portrait artist Dave White, also offers basic advice for beginners along with more advanced techniques suitable for experienced artists who wish to capture the spirit and character of dogs in their portraits. Beginning with detailed guidance on composition, colour and choosing your reference material, Dave White teaches you the essential painting techniques you'll need to start creating your own artworks – from producing an outline and underpainting to capturing the three-dimensional qualities of your pet that will make your paintings truly stand out, such as realistic hair and whiskers, getting the shine on a nose and a glint in an eye, and whether to show ears up or down or the tongues in or out. To follow, the author then offers three step-by-step projects of varying subjects – including a short-haired dog, a long-haired dog and a group portrait – which have been specially designed to encourage you to tackle the essential poses you'll need to start painting your own pooches. The book ends with a short section providing practical advice on setting up and running your own pet portrait business.